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DR. TOM GARDNER 

A STORY FROM LIFE 


/ 

By VIRGINIA LYNCH 

\ I 

AUTHOR OF “MOSES DANIEL” 

AND OTHER STORIES 



F. TENNYSON NEELY CO. 


NEW YORK 


CHICAGO 


LONDON 


L 




, ' k ‘ C'' >. , y 



Library of Congress 

Vwu Copies Received 

JAN 6 1901 

SE/:0Nl) COPY 
0e<tv«>Hl to 
OKOtK DIVISION 

JAN 21 1301 


Copyright, igoo, 
by 

F. Tennyson Neely Co. 
in 
the 

United States 
and 

Great Britain. 


All Rights Reserved. 


Zo Beloveb Sister, 


MRS. ARABELLA CHENAULT, OF MT. STERLING, 
MONTGOMERY CO., KY., 

THIS SIMPLE STORY FROM LIFE 

IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED. - 



DR. TOM GARDNER 


'' Marry my daughter ! No, sir ! The daughter 
of Andrew Stark marry a ‘ pill pedlar,' with no 
reputation? No, sir ! a thousand times, no! Your 
profession is a disgrace to this age, sir, a little 
short of highway robbery, and no child of mine 
shall form an alliance with a man of that char-, 
acter, if I have power to prevent it." 

“ May I be permitted to say that possibly my, 
love is returned ? " 

What nonsense. Celia love you ? Impossi- 
ble ! How do you define love anyway ? " 

The young physician was bewildered. He 
could amputate a limb without the slightest fear ; 
he could pick up a spurting artery without the 
quiver of a muscle; but the present ordeal was 
more trying than anything he had ever experi- 
enced. To attempt to explain love had never 
before entered his mind. He had no time to col- 
lect his thoughts, or formulate an intelligent 
answer, hence, in his confusion he could onlyl 
stammer — Love ? Why, love is — ah ! Why, Mr. 
Stark, your question is — absurd," 


6 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


‘‘Gad! You are right, sir. Love is absolute 
nonsense. An idiotic deceptive notion. Fiat food 
for poets and sentimental women. A form of 
mental hallucination. Why, sir! With $5,000 
I can buy all the love there is in Hamilton Coun- 
ty. The idea of a great ‘ duffer ’ like you talking 
of 1 -o-v-e. No, sir! It won’t wear or pay bills.” 

“ I am not a pauper, Andrew Stark, and while 
I may not be able at the present moment to sur- 
round your daughter with all the comforts she 
now enjoys, nevertheless, my practice is such as 
to” 

“Practice be d ;d! Your trade is a hum- 

bug, and you are an ass for following it. I don’t 
propose to allow you to build up your so-called 
practice on my reputation or money. Go to work, 
earn an honest living, and when you have enough 
means to provide for my child properly I may 
give you a hearing, but until then THIS MAT- 
TER IS SETTLED.” 

Thomas Gardner, M.D., was a young physi- 
cian, who, but a few years before, had located in 
Walnut Hills, one of the beautiful suburbs of Cin- 
cinnati, Ohio. He was graduated from the Uni- 
versity of Ohio, and had entered upon the practice 
of his profession with the enthusiasm of all new 
beginners, and was fast becoming very popular 
with the best and most influential people. Tall, 
rather robust, handsome and commanding in ap- 
pearance, always good natured, affectionate and 
sympathetic, his success and fortune seemed as- 
sured. Havinp- fallen in love with the beautiful 
daughter of Andrew Stark, a wealthy tobacconist, 
and assured of his love being returned, the doc- 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


7 


tor had, with utmost confidence, entered the pres- 
ence of her father, and in a carefully prepared 
declaration asked for the hand of his daughter, 
in marriage. 

Andrew Stark had by shrewd investments inj 
tobacco risen from the position of captain on a; 
river steamer to that of a capitalist, and was now 
a recognized member of society. He was proud, 
haughty, and without sentiment. He cared little 
for the feelings of others, paid all bills on de- 
mand, and this done he felt bound by no ties of 
affection. He was the acme of selfishness, 
cruelty, and heartlessness. Never having been 
ill he did not sympathize in the pain or sickness 
of others. His wife had been an invalid for sev- 
eral years prior to her death. Public sentiment 
had compelled him to employ physicians, so they 
and their bills were naturally repugnant to him. 
He despised his wife for her weakness in giving 
way to her feelings, and it was a great relief to 
him when his wife was six feet under ground. 

Dr. Gardner felt his dismissal was final, yet 
each day hoped against hope that Miss Celia 
would find means to overcome her father’s preju-' 
dice. , 

Weeks and months past without news of her. 
One morning as the doctor sat looking over his 
paper, he read, with fast-beating heart, that the 
family of Andrew Stark had gone to the sea-1 
shore for the season. 

Dr. Tom passed a long miserable summer. He| 
lost all ambition, and thought of little else but 
Celia. He wondered at the strange force, or 


8 


DR. TOM GARJDNER.. 


occult power, that seemed to stifle and hold him 
down. 

One day in autumn he was called to a neigh- 
boring city. On returning home he took the 
“ Flyer on the Big 4. Seating himself in a de- 
lightful chair, he was soon lost in reverie. Sud- 
denly there fell upon his ear a voice. Was he 
dreaming, or was it his imagination that made 
his heart beat fast as he recognized the sweet 
tones of his lost love. A hasty glance through his 
half-closed lids revealed a vision of perfect love- 
liness. For some time he gazed enraptured, 
hoping she would notice him. A weary sigh es- 
caped his lips. She turned her eyes towards him. 
He expected a smile, but his reward was simply 
a slight shrug of her pretty shoulders, as she 
turned her back upon him. 

“ It beats ail what a fool a woman can make 
of a man,” soliloquized Tom, and like many other 
men he failed to rise above this weakness. He 
determined to speak to her, and learn, if possi- 
ble, her true feelings for him, for he felt there 
must be some misunderstanding, or that he had 
been misrepresented to her by her father. As 
the cars rolled into the station, he arose and fol- 
lowed her closely as she started to leave the car. 
Overtaking her in the narrow passage, Dr. Tom 
softly whispered, “ Celia, is it possible you no 
longer care for me, is there not some misunder- 
standing? ” 

Turning towards him she slowly and with de- 
liberation said: 

“ My father’s wishes are mine, sir.” 

Surely she was the daughter of her father! 


DR. TOM GARDNER. d 

After several months of mental suffering Dr. 
Tom recovered his equilibrium, as men usually 
do. He resolved not only to withdraw from so- 
ciety, but to devote himself more assiduously to 
his profession, and by his success force people 
like Andrew Stark to respect him and his calling. 
So faithfully did he work and so great was his 
success in relieving the sufferings of the afflicted 
that Dr. Tom actually fell in love with his pro- 
fession. He devoted much of his time to gra- 
tuitous hospital practice, where he had charge of 
the fever and children’s wards. One of his great- 
est pleasures was to visit the convalescent little 
ones, gather them in his arms, soothe their sor- 
rows and brighten the faces which suffering had 
pinched. He thanked God for placing within 
his hands the power to relieve their physical pain. 
Some times he had delightful romps with the 
convalescents of the wards and the kindly sisters 
would never object, for Dr. Tom scattered sun- 
shine wherever he went. The dignified unap- 
proachable Sister Superior had actually been seen 
to lift her skirt and shuffle a long- forgotten step 
one time when Dr. Tom was playing “Money 
Musk ” on a harmonica, to the intense amuse- 
ment of the children. 

Dr. Tom had a great heart, and not only could 
he bring a smile of relief to the lips of a dying 
child, but many a poor man or woman had seized 
his hand and thanked him for freeing their last 
hours of physical agony. 

One morning, while on his way through the 
wards, he saw an infant suffering from pleurisy. 
“ Poor little waif,” he muttered, “ no mother’s 


10 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


lullaby has ever soothed you to slumber, why 
should you suffer? Surely no one has suggested 
the idea of pain to you/'* The tiny creature 
raised its hands as if imploring relief. Its little 
forehead was covered with perspiration, its eyes 
bulged from their sockets, every breath was short 
and imperfect which expressed more plainly than 
words its intense suffering. Dr. Tom noticed 
how, with all its strength the infant tried to hold 
its breath, for every one was agony; the little 
heart was beating 140 to the minute, and he real- 
ized that the vital powers were slowly yielding 
and the child was fast becaming unconscious 
from the awful pain. He wondered if he should 
shake the little thing, tell it there was no such 
thing as pain, that its sufferings were only im- 
aginary. How would it do to shut it up in some 
dark room, away from the contaminating 
thoughts of others. But alas ! It was too young 
to comprehend such a theory, too young to govern 
its own feelings, and too young to be relieved by 
prayer. ‘^Ah ! ” thought Dr. Tom, how much 
more sensible — infinitely grander — the knowledge 
that God in his great mercy has endowed man 
with reason that he may discover the soothing 
herb and strengthening cordial, by which he may 
relieve human suffering, rather than try to believe 
or assume there is no such reality as physical 
pain. Gently removing the clothing from the 
little breast, he applied a warm application, moist- 

* “ Pain is i-ot a reality, but rather the result of sug- 
gestion, a matter of belief or education. We are 
taught or educated to believe in pain from childhood.” 

— Judge Ewing. 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


11 


ening the tip of his finger he placed thereon a 
small white powder, and inserted it into the 
child’s mouth, a simple common drug. Soon the 
pain disappeared, and the exhausted child fell 
into a quiet peaceful slumber. 

“Ah ! ” said Dr. Tom, “ the flowers of the 
'poppy* will surely bloom in the fields of Heaven.” 

It is little wonder Thomas Gardner became fa- 
mous in his profession. 


12 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


CHAPTER 11. 

A BEAUTIFUL day in October, while examining 
the new fever cases assigned to his ward, Dr. 
Tom was attracted by the appearance of a young 
woman, who in her delirium was calling repeat- 
edly for “ mother.’' That word of all others was 
particularly dear to Dr. Tom. Taking a chair 
at the bedside of the sufferer, he noticed the re- 
markably sweet face and delicate complexion of 
the girl. “ There must be some mistake, this is 
no ward patient,” thought he. Softly he touched 
the pretty wrist, the pulse was very rapid. “Ah,” 
said he, “ a dangerous case.” Wonder what her 
temperature is ? ” Suiting his actions to his 
words he took his fever thermometer from his 
pocket and placed it snugly in the axilla. The 
act caused the girl to open her eyes. At the sight 
of those beautiful eyes, Dr. Tom gave a gasp of 
astonishment — more than this he became some- 
what excited, a cold perspiration broke over his 
forehead, and his hand actually trembled, as he 
hurriedly reached for the clinical chart. 

“ANNETTE FAY, eh ! what is this? Deuced- 
ly queer! What a fool I am. Remarkable re- 
semblance! Wonderful eyes! By Jove! I 


DR. TOM GARJ>NER. 


13 


thought they were Celia’s, but thank goodness 
they are not. Is it possible those eyes have not 
lost their power over me? Shall I never forget 
their existence?” These and other like thoughts 
ran through his brain, as he read the clinical 
chart. 

“ Humph — Annette Fay, orphan ! 

Mother recently died of typhoid fever. 

Father killed in railroad accident. 

“ History of illness — indefinite, delirious upon 
entrance. 

“ Brought to hospital by friends. 

Diagnosis. . . .Typhoid fever. 

‘'Assigned to Ward A, Dr. Tom Gardner.” 

“ So the mother she calls for is dead, eh ? I 
wonder who those friends could be? How could 
any one desert such a child in her illness? Never 
mind, little lady, you will find a friend in me, or 
Tom Gardner is no longer human.” 

Upon inquiry at the office Dr. Gardner learned 
that the patient had been brought to the hospital 
by an apparently wealthy man ; a servant in livery 
had carried her into the building, while the gen- 
tleman arranged for her care, paying $21 for 
three weeks as a ward patient, and leaving with 
the sole statement : 

“ Notify Post-office Box 487 in case of death.” 

Dr. Tom’s sympathy was aroused. All day 
long that sad, sweet face with the wonderful blue 
eyes, and long black lashes, haunted him. How 
fascinating they were! 

“ Who could she be ? Certainly he must have 
met her somewhere.” 

Ten o’clock found him again at her bedside. 


14 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


Temperature one hundred five and two-fifths, 
ah! little one, you are having a hard struggle,” 
he muttered softly, and taking the chart under the 
head of “ Instructions ” hastily wrote-: 

“ Place a special nurse in charge of this case 
at my expense. Tom Gardner.” 

It was several days before the crisis came, and 
for the first time in his life Dr. Tom became irri- 
table; he found fault with the nurses, changed 
one simply because she had red hair, he even in- 
sisted that a red-haired girl was always a “ hoo- 
doo ” to him in a sick room, and grumblingly said, 
“ No wonder they could not keep the temperature 
down with such flaming color about.” 

The crisis came, and for three days and nights 
Dr. Tom never left that bedside. Once or twice, 
to his great astonishment, he had heard her call 
his name in her delirium. “Certainly then she 
knew him, who could she be ? Was it possible she 
had been sent here under an assumed name ? ” 

Dr. Tom resolved to know her history, but de- 
cided it would be more satisfactory to wait and 
later learn it from the patient herself, should she 
recover and wish him to know it. 

Slowly but surely she became convalescent, and 
it was with great pleasure Dr. Tom watched the 
roses coming back to the wan cheeks. When he 
came into the ward he invariably looked to see 
if those “ big blue eyes ” were turned his way. 
He tried to be impartial, now that she was better, 
and would sit and chat with the other patients, 
bringing them all sorts of bon bons, and soon be- 
came “ Dr. Tom again ” as the nurses remarked. 

Five weeks slowly passed, but patient 146 was 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


15 


not yet sufficiently strong to be discharged. A 
letter addressed to Post-office Box 487 by the su- 
perintendent, was responded to by a messenger 
boy with the necessary amount. 

“ One week more,” thought Dr. Tom, ‘‘ and she 
will be gone.” 

Coming into the ward he found her seated in 
an invalid wheel-chair. As soon as he appeared 
she eagerly asked: 

Please Dr. Tom, may I be wheeled out into 
the sunshine ? ” 

‘‘Sunshine, eh? That’s what you want, is it, 
little lady? Of course you may. How many 
are strong enough, and want to go out on the 
porch this morning? Hold up your hands there 
— hold them up and let me count them — four, 
five, six — alright, hurrah ! get in line all that have 
wheel-chairs ! ” 

And as quickly as possible they hurried to the 
center of the room, one in front of the other, and 
soon Dr. Tom was pushing the whole row into 
the hall and through the great door, every face 
smiling with happiness. 

Dr. Tom passed around a box of bon bons he 
had secreted in his pocket, and took a chair at 
the side of his “ bad typhoid,” as he called her. 

“ Well, little lady,” said he, with that quaint 
grace so habitual with him, “ you are about well 
once more.” 

“ Yes, and I want to thank you for your great 
kindness and attention. I realize that I surely 
would have died were it not for your skill, and 
you must know how grateful I feel.” 

‘‘ Tut, tut, no more of that, this is my world 


16 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


and my life’s work, and it affords me great pleas- 
ure trying to comfort those brought here. We 
cannot do much, but what we do is done freely 
and to the best of our ability.” 

“ Everybody calls you Dr. Tom; please may I 
know your surname ? 1 hope always to remember 
it and your kindness.” 

'‘Ah! you don’t know my name? Your face 
seems familiar, have we ever met before? My 
name is Dr. Tom Gardner.” 

“No, sir! I don’t remember you; but let me 
think, the name sounds familiar, where have I 
heard it ? ” 

“ Hum,” thought Dr., Tom, “ That’s a joke on 
me. Does not know me.” 

“ So you have never seen me before, eh ? I am 
more puzzled than ever, little one, to know why 
you mentioned my name when you were delirious. 
Tell me about yourself. Is Annette Fay your 
true name ? ” 

“ Yes, sir, that is my real name. My mother’s 
name is Matilda Fay. . . .Mother, oh, doctor, that 
name has brought the past back to me. Mother, 
dear mother. . . .forgive me, though in my sick- 
ness I had forgotten your precious love. Oh, Dr. 
Tom, why did you save me? Let me die, please 
let me die ! ” 

The flood gates of her soul were opened, her 
face became of ashen hue, and before the doctor 
could realize her condition she became uncon- 
scious and was slowly slipping from her chair. 

“ Well this is a fine ending to our talk,” 
thought the doctor as he gathered her in his 
strong arms and carried her into the ward. 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


17 


Hastily calling a nurse he said: 

“ Guess it was too much for the girl ; nothing 
Dut syncope, however; give her a little Arrom 
spirits of ammonia, and keep her perfectly quiet.’* 


18 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


CHAPTER III. 

The next morning Annette was herself again. 

“ Too brave to have a relapse,” said Dr. Tom, 
as he seated himself by her bedside. 

“ Brace up, Miss Fay, and you will soon be 
strong and well enough to face any trouble.” 

“ You are so kind. Dr. Tom, I owe you an apol- 
ogy for yesterday, but, oh, sir, my sorrow is very 
great, and the past came back so vividly! I am 
all alone. Dr. Tom, and I would love above all 
things to be a trained nurse. I can, as never be- 
fore, appreciate their usefulness, and now that I 
cannot die, I should like to scatter sunshine as 
you do. I should like to devote my life to that 
purpose.” 

“A trained nurse. Why, Miss Fay, you would 
not last six months at that business. You would 
set every intern in the hospital crazy, and some 
fine morning you would be reported missing. 
These ‘ interns " are a horrible lot, and I’ll never 
trust another. They have actually robbed me of 
two of my best girls inside of six months, and 
it would never do to trust you with them.” 

“ O, Dr. Tom, do not make fun of me. I will 
have to do something. You have a big heart, I 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


19 


wish I could tell you of my sweet mother, it 
would make me feel better if I could speak of her 
to some one, but I ought not to burden you, of all 
others, with a tale of woe.” 

“ Ah, Miss Fay, you will never find a better 
listener. To tell the truth I have a great big 
bump of curiosity. This huge ossious enlarge- 
ment, or protuberance of my cranium, see ! It is 
congenital I assure you, born there, and since I 
heard you speak my name in your delirium, I 
have been almost frantic to know who you were, 
where you were from, and whither you were 
going. I have wondered, too, where you found 
those big blue eyes, with the soft brown hair and 
long dark eyelashes — a strange contrast. I im- 
agined you were under an assumed name — a lost 
heiress — or something of the sort. So you see I 
am prepared to hear almost anything.” 

You make me laugh, Dr. Tom, despite my 
adversity, but if you will be kind and send me out 
into the sunshine again, I will tell you of my 
mother.” 

Seated upon the broad veranda that bright au- 
tumn day. Dr. Tom heard as pathetic a story as 
ever mortal listened to. This is what Annette 
told, amid her tears : 

“ Several years ago my father was accidentally 
killed in a railroad accident, mother received 
$5000 from the company, we had a comfortable 
home at Stanton, Virginia, but were so lonely 
without my father, that upon uncle’s earnest so- 
licitation we sold everything and came to Cincin- 
nati. Uncle was reported to be immensely rich, 
and was mother’s only brother, and she an only 


20 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


sister. Last spring, in May or June, uncle per- 
suaded mother to place her money in his hands 
for investment. For some reason the speculation 
in tobacco failed, at least uncle so reported to 
mother, and we were left dependent solely upon 
his charity. This broke mother’s heart, for she 
was always proud and sensitive. She talked the 
affair over time and again with me and finally we 
determined to find some work and leave uncle’s 
house, but before we could do so mother was tak- 
en ill with what we now know was typhoid fever. 
Uncle is a member of the Christian Scientists’ 
Society. A so-called healer was sent for and she 
and uncle made light of mother’s illness saying 
it was only her imagination and even refused her 
ordinary comforts. 

“ When mother grew worse uncle became 
alarmed and finally consented to call in a physi- 
cian. 

“ Hearing of your success, mother requested 
that you be sent for, but when uncle heard your 
name, he flew into a violent rage and said you of 
all others should never enter his house. Another 
physician was summoned, and after making an 
examination told uncle there was little if any hope 
for her recovery, and he suggested that Dr. Tom 
Gardner be sent for in consultation, and although 
mother begged and pleaded, uncle firmly refused. 

“ The doctor then demanded a trained nurse to 
take charge of the , case, but uncle said it would 
be an insult to God to even permit a doctor to 
enter a so-called sick room, hence he would not 
further affront the Deity by admitting a person 
trained in making intelligent beings feel their sin 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


21 


Or pain. The physician thereupon refused to 
have anything further to do with the case, and 
bowed himself out. 

“ For several days mother was delirious, but 
never received medical attention, nor could she 
take any nourishment. 

“ I was alone with her when she died. It was 
early in the evening; they were holding a Chris- 
tian Science entertainment down stairs, and I did 
not dare to call uncle for I knew he would be 
furious, so I staid alone with mother’s body until 
the next morning. 

I shall never forget that night. Occasionally 
a shout of glee or chorus of laughter from below, 
would almost drive me mad, and I longed for 
vengeance, as I knew they had killed my mother. 

“ When morning came uncle was violently in- 
dignant. Several of the prominent Christian Sci- 
entists were called in, and one of them, the leader, 
told me I alone was to blame, that I sinned in 
thinking mother would die. Uncle fairly shook 
me in his rage, and I — I have no recollection of 
what occurred afterwards. I do not remember 
even being brought to the hospital. I must have 
been ill. I can tell you no more — I came to my- 
self only yesterday. Do you wonder. Dr. Tom, 
that I fainted when the past came back to me ? ” 

“ Who is this brute of an uncle ? ” finally asked 
Tom. 

Doctor, I would rather not mention his name. 
It would do no good. I want to slip away from 
here so he will never know where I am.” 

Dr. Tom was very much affected at the story, 


22 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


and there were tears in his eyes as Sister Ve- 
ronica, looking out upon the porch, remarked: 

“ Ah, it is evident Dr. Tom has found another 
protegee. If I remember correctly that makes 
sixteen so far this year, and this is only Novem- 
ber. Well, I am glad there is some one that can 
become interested in these poor creatures.” 

“ I don’t blame you for feeling ashamed of 
this uncle of yours,” murmured Dr. Tom. Nev- 
er mind, I won’t .trouble you for his name, but 
I will find it out for my own satisfaction, for I 
never see a Christian Scientist bigot that I don’t 
feel like giving him an emetic, and if I ever 
meet this one I shall never rest until I turn him 
wrong side out, and, little one. I’ll think over 
your case, and help you to some conclusion. When 
strong enough to leave here I’ll send you out to 
my old mother, who lives on ‘ Tip Top,’ you will 
need a little country air after such a trial and 
sickness.” 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


23 


CHAPTER IV. 

Later in the afternoon Dr. Tom sauntered into 
the post-office. 

“ Think Til do a little detective work/’ thought 
he. 

Approaching the box window, he called up the 
clerk and in a sort of professional way, asked : 

“ Please be kind enough to give me the name 
of the owner of lock-box 487.” 

“ Sorry, sir, but we are not allowed to give 
such information.” 

^'Against the rules, eh, well, never mind old 
man, I owe you an apology for asking, please ex- 
cuse me.” 

“ Humph,” thought Dr. Tom, as he left. 
“ There’s a little too much red tape about this af- 
fair for me, so I guess I’ll turn the whole thing 
over to some one that’s in the business.” With 
this in view he stepped into the office of his old 
friend the famous detective, Clint Butts. 

“ Say, Clint, I’ve got an important matter I 
want you to look up for me.” 

“ Well, I would do most anything for Thomas 
Gardner. What is it. Doctor? Case of mal- 
practice— or has a crime been committed ? ” 


24 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


Not as bad as that. I want you to go down 
to the post-office and find out who is the owner 
of lock-box 487.'' 

“ Nothing easier, Doctor, but I wouldn’t have 
to go there for such knowledge.” 

You may not find it as easy as you think. I 
just came from there, and a chump at the window 
told me it was against the rules to grant such 
information.” 

“ Ha ! ha ! Doctor, what a great detective you 
would make. I’ll show you how easy it is.” Tak- 
ing a red book from a pigeon-hole in his desk he 
slowly thumbed over the pages, reaching number 
487, he laughingly said: 

“ Here it is. Doctor, you can see for yourself. 
Lock-box 487, Andrew Stark, Tobacconist, 
Wholesale Leaf.” 

The doctor was speechless with astonishment. 
Yes, sir, he’s owned that box for the last 
twenty years.” 

“ Andrew Stark ! I ought to have known it.” 
He’s the biggest scoundrel in this community, 

the hard-hearted, miserable wretch, the” 

Hold on. Doctor ! Go slow ! He’s one of the 
big guns, a millionaire, and more than all, if my 
eyes have not deceived me, a young doctor friend 
of mine is about as badly in love with his daugh- 
ter as any ‘ kid ’ I ever saw.” 

“ Now it’s my time to call ‘ hold on,’ ” said the 
doctor. “ I don’t believe you have seen us to- 
gether lately. And I am very much in doubt if 
you ever will again. If I am not very much 
mistaken the Good Book tells us that, ‘it is a good 


t>R. TOM Gardner. ^3 

thing to talk over your heart’s feelings with a 
friend,’ so I’ll” 

“ I wouldn’t want to certify that you would 
find those words in the Bible, Doctor, but I’ll hear 
you out.” 

“Well it may not be Scripture; I may have 
read it elsewhere; but it is gospel just the same. 
The truth is my suit was rejected by the old 
man, backed up with a repulse from the maiden 
herself. I bear them no ill-will, however, but it’s 
off so far as I am concerned, and while it was 
a hard blow for me, I am becoming gradually 
reconciled to the inevitable, and am jubilant now 
to think I have found out the real character of the 
brute who is her father. I want to tell you one of 
his ‘ pious ’ acts, and get your professional opin- 
ion concerning the matter.” 

Dr. Tom repeated the story of Annette Fay. 

“ Whew ! That’s the way the wind blows, 
eh?” remarked the old detective. Stark has a 
miserly reputation, but I have never heard of 
anything even ^ shady ’ before. That’s rather a 
serious charge. Dr. Tom, we’ll have to go slow, 
but it’s worth investigation. Now let me see” — r- 

“ I don’t supose the sister took a receipt for the 
amount she let him have.” 

“ No, I should think not.” 

“ Don’t know the exact date, nor the exact 
amount?” 

“ No, but it must have been sometime during 
the past spring, say in May or June last; the 
young lady thinks it must have been over 
$5000.00.” 


26 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


“ And he claimed to have lost it in a tobaccco 
deal?’^ 

Yes, so he reported.” 

After a few moments’ meditation, Mr. Butts 
rose from his chair, buttoned up his coat and 
said, “ Well, Doctor, I think the first thing for 
us to do is to walk down to the Enquirer office.” 

“ Great- Scott ! What has the Enquirer to do 
with the matter ? ” 

“ Ha ! ha ! What a detective you would make. 
Our profession requires as much careful dissec- 
tion as yours. You are not the only fellows that 
need an abundance of nerve, as well as tact and 
common sense. Just come along and I’ll show 
you a little of our fine work.” 

Arriving at the office the detective called for a 
file of the Daily, and was soon absorbed in exam- 
ing the market reports. After looking them over 
carefully, he exclaimed : “ Things begin to look 
a little suspicious. Doctor, a speculator of his 
judgment would not be apt to lose in such a 
market. From the middle of May until August 
15th, there was a steady rise in leaf tobacco, and 
some brands are quite high. Our man is noted 
for being a very exacting business man, it would 
not surprise me to think there was some record of 
this matter at the office. Guess I’ll have to take 
a squint at his books.” 

“ How will you manage that ? ” asked the doc- 
tor. “ It seems to me that would be a very diffi- 
cult undertaking, with some risk of exposure.” 

“ No, I think not, that is about as easy as any 
of your capital operations. Of course, though. 


DR.. TOM GARJ>NER.. 


27 


a man must be familiar with his anatomy before 
he tackles anything of that magnitude.’' 

Returning to his office the old detective penned 
the following lines : 

“Andrew Stark, Esq., 

''Dear Sir: I regret to state that some of your 
clerks have been flying pretty high of late. Will 
you kindly permit the bearer hereof (an expert 
accountant) to have access for a few hours to 
your books that I may satisfy myself of this mat- 
ter? It may be but a base suspicion, but I as- 
sure you no disclosures, if found, will be made 
public without your knowledge and consent. This 
investigation to be made entirely at my expense. 

(Signed) 

“Clint Butts.” 

Turning from his desk the detective called for 
Mr. James Colby, expert book-keeper, and upon 
his appearance gave him the following history of 
the affair and instructions: 

“ James, we have a rather peculiar case. A 
Mrs. Matilda Fay is supposed to have given 
Andrew Stark, the wealthy tobacconist, a sum of 
money, presumably over five thousand dollars, 
for investment some time last spring. Stark is 
said to have lost that sum in a tobacco specula- 
tion. The tobacco reports from May fifteenth to 
August fifteenth show a steady increase on all 
leaf tobacco. Take this letter of introduction, 
read it over, go down to the office and learn if 
this lady’s name appears on the ledger. If not, 
find out if any such sum was placed on any deal 
on or about that time, and if so, trace the tran- 
saction to it’s end. There seems to be a ‘ nigger 


28 DR. TOM GARDNER. 

in the fence ’ somewhere, see if you can find 
him.” 

“ Dr. Tom, that’s all we can do until we get 
Mr. Colby’s report. Come in the latter part of 
the week and we will look it over.” 

Saturday morning found the doctor at the de- 
tective’s office, and together they examined Mr. 
Colby’s report. 

The name of Mrs. Matilda Fay did not appear 
on their ledger. 

The following item was in the journal of May 
20th : 

Page 2356, $8,000 placed on Zimmer Fillers 
as follows: 

$3,000, W. G. Morris. 

$2,000, Wayne & Ratterman. 

1.000, Wm. E. Bradford. 

2.000, N. W. Queen & Co. 

$8,000. 

Placed to the individual credit of Andrew 
Stark, to be stored in Morris warehouse. 

Here followed the number of each hogshead. 
Upon the buyers’ blotter for May 20, was found 
the following entry: 

“ Place $8,000 on Zimmer Fillers at once, in- 
dividual account. A. S.” 

Mr. Colby learned incidentally that Mr. Stark 
kept a private ledger which no one had access to. 

“ Well, what do you think of it, Dr. Tom? ” 

‘‘ What do you think of it? ” 

“ It certainly looks ‘ squally.’ The next thing 
is to take a peep at that private ledger.” 

“ That seems impossible.” 


DR.. TOM GARJ>N£R.. 


29 


“ About like removing the stomach, eh? Well, 
I think it can be done/’ 

Yes, I presume some daredevils do attempt 
it, but few patients live to boast of their skill.” 

‘‘ Ha ! ha ! That may be true, but we are go- 
ing to see that ledger. Just give me two days 
and its dollars to doughnuts I’ll have a good look 
at it. But, Doctor, don’t be too hopeful, we may 
after all lose our case. An unexpected secondary 
hemorrhage might occur and destroy our hopes, 
so be easy until I see you again. Call around 
Tuesday for our final decision. I sent Jim back 
to find the tobacco, and if sold, to trace the buy- 
ers by numbers. 


50 


DR.. TOM GARDNER. 


CHAPTER V. 

Annette was able to leave the hospital. After 
much persuasion she consented to go to the doc- 
tor’s mother, and under that good woman’s care 
was rapidly regaining her lost health and 
strength. Doctor Tom told her he had learned 
her uncle’s identity, and admitted he was making 
an investigation about the lost money. He prom- 
ised not to reveal her whereabouts, nor act with- 
out her consent. Like a sensible girl she did not 
prohibit this, but insisted that Dr. Tom should 
not take the matter into the courts except as a 
last recourse. She had a horror of judges and 
juries, and what could a poor girl do to corrob- 
orate her statements without even a scratch of a 
pen as evidence. 

Tuesday morning the doctor’s door-bell rang 
violently. He having been up very late the night 
before was not easily aroused, but finally 
answered the summons. 

On opening the door, he was seized by the 
hand and greeted by the voice of the old detec- 
tive. 

“ Ha ! ha ! Eight o’clock and not yet dressed. 
Well, I couldn’t wait Doctor, we’ve got the old 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


31 


devil by the horns. You only have to tighten 
the string, and he’ll dance to any tune you whistle. 
Jump into your clothes and I’ll tell you all about 
it.” 

While the doctor was dressing he heard the 
discovery. 

It was no trick at all,” said the old detective. 

Jim made him believe some of the clerks were 
watching him and got permission to take the 
books into the private office, and while the old 
^ duffer ’ was out Jim examined his ledger. He 
found the name of Matilda Fay, page 222. She 
has the sum of eight thousand dollars placed to 
her credit under date of May nineteenth. There 
is no entry to show she had ever received a cent, 
nor was she charged with any profit or loss. Un- 
questionably the investment corresponds with the 
date the money was received. The amount is ex- 
actly the same, and the blotter shows the money 
was placed the day after it was received, a coin- 
cident old Stark would find very difficult to ex- 
plain to a jury.” 

“ Well ! By Jove ! Clint, you are a ‘ hummer,’ 
as they say out West. And I don’t blame you 
for being jubilant.” 

Well, Doctor, that word scarcely expresses 
it. It’s more a feeling of ecstasy over an easy 
victory. I presume, about as a surgeon feels 
when he cuts down and finds a simple ‘ pus ’ dis- 
tended appendix without adhesions, eh?” 

You are right, Clint, and have my congratu- 
lations. I am proud of your success. Now, 
what is the next move. How shall we approach 
him?” 


52 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


IVe been thinking about that, Doctor. 
You will have to move slowly and very carefully. 
Old Stark is as slippery as an eel, and with his 
millions to back him, could keep this matter in 
court indefinitely. As the girl is under age the 
first thing is to have you appointed guardian. 
This will give you authority to ^ct legally in the 
matter; then you can beard the lion in his den. 
If you can make him believe your affection for 
his daughter alone prevents you from taking the 
affair into court, I think you will be able to effect 
some kind of a settlement. 

It was several weeks before Doctor Tom com- 
plied with all the legal technicalities and received 
his appointment as guardian. Finally having ar- 
ranged all the details he was prepared to meet 
any emergency. Firm in the belief that his ward 
had been intentionally robbed of her rights, and 
accompanied by an intimate friend, to act as a 
witness, he walked unannounced into the private 
office of Andrew Stark, 

Ah, good morning, Mr. Stark.” 

“ Mr. Gardner, I perceive.” 

‘‘Yes, Mr. Gardner! if you so prefer. I have 
a little business matter to be adjusted. If my 
memory serves me aright a few months ago you 
had the assurance to call me and members of my 
profession robbers. Yes I ‘ Robbers of a gullible 
public,’ I think was your way of expressing it. 
Well, Mr. Stark, by way of preface, I wish to 
state that your theory of robbery is not altogether 
confined to the medical profession.” 

“ I fail to comprehend your meaning, 
plainly!” 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


33 


I’ll try to. For the honor of your family I 
have refrained from bringing this matter into 
court.” 

Court ! ‘ Honor of my family ! ’ To what do 
you refer, sir? How dare you approach me in 
such a manner; what do you mean by these in- 
sinuations? ril have you remember that my 
honesty and integrity have never been questioned, 
and no living person dares to coerce or blackmail 
me. I am a self-made man, sir, and fear no court 
or jury.” 

‘‘ Hold on, calm yourself, don’t get so red in 
the face ; you might have a stroke of apoplexy. I 
am glad to know you are a self-made man, it cer- 
tainly relieves God of a great responsibility, 
but” 

“ Speak out or I’ll have you thrown out of 
this office. I am not a man to be trifled with. If 
you have any business with me, say so, if not, 
there is the door.. If my daughter is connected 
with this affair or if you are concocting some 
blackmailing scheme, let me know the worst, sir.” 

“ God forbid, Andrew Stark, that I should 
bring the name of your daughter into such a 
controversy. It is respect for her that has pre- 
vented me from bringing this matter into court, 
as I have before stated. I am here in the interest 
of your beloved niece, Annette Fay.” 

“ Etta Fay ! Humph ! By what authority do 
you represent this girl.” 

“ Examine this,” said Dr. Tom, handing him a 
copy of his appointment as guardian. 

“ Well, what is your pleasure? ” 

^'Annette Fay, so I understand, is the only 


34 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


daughter of your only sister, the lately deceased 
Matilda Fay, who died, unattended, at your 
house in this city, and was buried surreptitiously, 
at night, without a permit from the Board of 
Health. I am informed also that the said sister 
on or about the nineteenth day of May last, 
placed in your hands, for investment, the sum of 
eight thousand dollars ; all, in fact, she possessed. 
I find further, according to the books in your of- 
fice, that on May twentieth (the very day after 
receiving this money) you succeeded in placing 
the entire amount on Zimmer Fillers. I am also 
informed that you made this poor sister under- 
stand you had lost the entire sum, and at the 
time of her death you permitted her to believe 
herself a pauper and dependent upon your mag- 
nanimity. I learn that her name does not appear 
upon the firm’s ledger, only on your private ledg- 
er. I am prepared to prove of whom you pur- 
chased the tobacco and my agents have traced 
each and every hogshead and case of this to- 
bacco — to the very day of its disposal, and can 
name each and every buyer. We know that you 
more than doubled the money on your investment 
and in consequence I am here to demand the sum 
of fifteen thousand dollars, due and unpaid to the 
young girl for whom I have the honor to act as 
guardian.” 

“ Ah ! ” cried Andrew Stark, livid with rage, 
so that is your awful story of slander. Well, 
sir, you do me great injustice. You are laboring 
under a misunderstanding. It is, at best, a mere 
bagatelle, a trifling matter, and easily adjusted. 
However, I am engaged this morning upon a 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


35 


far more important matter. You may call to- 
morrow at one o’clock and you shall have my 
answer.” And with his long bony finger, An- 
drew Stark pointed towards the door. Tom 
Gardner failed to take the hint. 

“ Thanks for your otfer, Mr. Stark, but I don’t 
propose to grant you time to think over this mat- 
ter. I prefer to have the claim adjusted at once. 
You must deny or affirm the rights of my ward, 
or the court will settle it. Take your choice.” 

“ You are acting with great presumption, sir. 
May I ask why you insist upon such unneces- 
sary haste ? ” 

“ Certainly, lack of confidence in people of your 
class is my first reason; when I prescribe an 
emetic I usually prefer to see it administered and 
notice the effect. I’ll give you until two o’clock 
this afternoon to formulate your reply. If your 
answer is not forthcoming at that time, I shall 
construe such action as a refusal of our rights 
and shall order the sheriff to serve the notices 
before sundown. Please remember, Andrew 
Stark, that I have a certified copy of your private 
ledger and if there is a scratch of a pen made 
upon page 222, to the debit of Matilda Fay, I shall 
bring a criminal as well as a civil acti''.i against 
you. With this warning I bid you, good morn- 
ing.” 

For thirty minutes Andrew Stark was beside 
himself with rage. Noticing his reflection in the 
large plate glass mirror opposite, he shook his 
fist repeatedly at it, cursing his carelessness bit- 
terly. His private secretary attempted to enter 
the room and was almost decapitated by the door 


36 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


being slammed in his face. Another half-hour 
was lost in walking the floor, trying to collect his 
senses. Suddenly the thought seized him, ‘‘ What 
did that confounded ' pill pedlar ’ mean by refer- 
ence to page 222 of my private ledger.” Grab- 
bing the book he hastily turned to the page and 
found the following entry: 

''May 19... Matilda Fay. . ..Cr.. . . $8,000.00.” 

" What an ass I was to ever make an 
entry like that, or open such an account,” he ex- 
claimed. " That skunk evidently knows all about 
my books. Wouldn’t give me twenty-four hours 
for fear I would concoct some scheme. Well, I 
don’t need it. I’d rather lose a few thousand than 
allow such a ' snob ’ to triumph over me.” Stark 
sat himself down to figure the cheapest way out 
of the dilemna. It was not long before a smile 
of satisfaction forced itself over his cyanotic 
features, and wiping the froth of anger from his 
lips, he muttered : “Andrew Stark, your careless- 
ness will cost you a merry sum, but I presume it 
is the best way out of it. Gad ! It will take the 
cheek out of that fellow.” 

Calling his head bookkeeper he said to him : 

'' May twentieth, last, I placed eight thousand 
dollars on Zimmer Fillers. Would it be difficult 
to trace the profits on that investment ? ” 

'' I think not, sir. It would take some time, 
however.” 

“ I must know in one hour. Use the entire 
office force if need be, but give me a fair estimate 
at least, and be quick about it.” 

Seating himself, Andrew Stark grasped his 


DR. TOM GARDNER. St 

ledger and formulated his plan to offset the ** pill 
pedlar.” 

He simply opened an account to Annette Fay, 
charging her with sixteen weeks board for herself 
and fourteen weeks for her mother, at one hun- 
dred and fifty dollars, and six weeks’ hospital 
charges, a total of forty-two dollars. Lastly he 
added the funeral expenses of his sister, the sum 
of one hundred and thirty-five dollars. He hesi- 
tated a little over the last item but finally made 
the charge. 

Not long after this the bookkeeper made his 
report. 

“ I find, sir, that having cornered the market 
on Zimmer Fillers, the profits were over one hun- 
dred per cent., and the entire amount was placed 
immediately upon Little Dutch so that at the 
present time” 

“ Confound your Little Dutch and the present 
time. Are you sure we doubled our money on 
that investment ? ” 

“ Yes, sir.” 

Would you be willing to certify that fifteen 
thousand dollars would cover the principal and 
profit, eh ? ” 

“ It was more than that.” 

“ Never mina. Make out a certificate of seven 
thousand dollars profit on that investment, ad- 
dress it to me, sign it over your title of head 
bookkeeper, and date it back six or eight weeks.” 

The bookkeeper soon returned with the fol- 
lowing paper: 


38 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


“Andrew Stark, Esq., 

“ I hereby certify that the profits upon your in- 
vestment of $8000 made May 20th amounted to 
about $7000. Edward Cline, 

“Chief Bookkeeper.” 

The seven thousand dollars was placed as a 
credit to the account of Annette Fay, leaving a 
net amount of fourteen thousand six hundred and 
seventy-three dollars as a balance due her. 

At two o’clock that afternoon Dr. Tom made 
his appearance with his friend. He was a little 
nervous, but anxious for the fray. To his sur- 
prise Andrew Stark hiet him with a rather 
friendly greeting. 

“ It seems Mr. Gardner, that in some way, 
unknown to me, you have had access to my pri- 
vate ledger. In justice to me, your informant 
should have been more impartial in his investiga- 
tion, for had he used ordinary care he would 
certainly have avoided such misunderstanding of 
the facts as they exist. If Matilda made the re- 
marks you have asserted, she labored under a 
delusion, for she was not a pauper. A short time 
after her demise I placed to Etta’s credit the en- 
tire amount due her. Please take this ledger in 
your own hands, and you can follow me better. 
Here is the certificate of my bookkeeper which 
forms the basis of my credit. I have charged the 
account only with the necessary expenses. You 
will observe there is a balance of fourteen thou- 
sand six hundred and seventy-three dollars now 
due your ward, and I will gladly give you, as her 
guardian, a check for the amount, if satisfactory. 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


Sd 

Even you must admit you have done me great in- 
justice.” 

If a pugilist had landed an upper cut on Tom . 
Gardner’s jaw he could not have been more as- 
tonished. He read the bookkeeper’s certificate 
over carefully, with pencil ran over each item, 
and finally stammered : 

“ It’s all right, Mr. Stark, except this item of 
funeral expenses. I am not sure that my ward 
might not object to paying one hundred and 
thirty-five dollars for a night burial. Strike that 
out and I will receipt this in full.” 

Without a word Stark drew a check for the 
amount demanded, received a receipt in full, and 
Tom Gardner in a sort of a cataleptic condition 
withdrew without power to make a sound. 

Dr, Tom never felt quite satisfied with the set- 
tlement and strange actions of Andrew Stark, 
and many times talked the matter over with the 
old detective, who, while he congratulated Dr. 
Tom upon his success, twitted him for allowing 
Andrew Stark to hoodwink him into believing 
him honest, when James Colby declared there was 
no entry of “Annette Fay ” upon the book when 
he last examined it. 


40 


bR. TOM GARDNEI^. 


CHAPTER VI. 

About eight miles from Cincinnati on the Ken- 
tucky shore is a valley in the hills called “ Happy 
Hollow/' About a half«-mile up this rocky creek, 
is a large sycamore tree, which stands, as it were, 
a guard of honor at the forks of the road; the 
largest branch of which points to the right, 
towards a narrow macadamized road known as 
Hand’s Pike. Commencing near the foot of this 
tree, this narrow road, at the old stone bridge, 
after many a steep and tortuous effort, winds 
slowly onward and upward until it reaches the 
summit of the tallest of the hills round about. 
To the left, a quarter of a mile from the summit 
of the hill, is a beautiful white cottage, the sum- 
mer home of Dr. Gardner’s mother, and a dear 
old place it was. The long white fence, with its 
row of locust trees, the double row of tall pines 
in front, the broad porch, and the wide hall, the 
wood-shed and barn to the right, the apple or- 
chard in the rear, were objects dear to the heart 
of Thomas Gardner, for he was a great home boy. 
How pleasant it was for him, when weary in 
heart and mind, to return to dear old “ Tip Top,” 
the home of his boyhood, hallowed by sacred 


DR. TOM 


41 


memories time could never efface. How sweet 
it was to sit once more on the old stile at the 
gate, and with his dear old mother at his side, 
listen to the music of the pines, hear her tender 
words of encouragement, dream, think, or in si- 
lence watch the twilight slowly fade; and then, 
in the darkness appeared the beautiful stars vying 
with each other in glory, each coming nearer and 
nearer until Dr. Tom could almost reach them 
with his hand. Surely, Heaven was not far 
away. No wonder he loved the dear old place, 
for “ Tip To^- ’’ was truly the “ Golden Mile 
Stone,” the starting point in Dr. Tom’s life, and 
in after years, when his locks were snowy white, 
and Memory, by her magic wand brought back to 
him the scenes of his boyhood, his heart strings 
loosened and he was not ashamed of the tears 
that flowed in fond remembrance of those happy 
days, when all the links of the family were un- 
broken and shown brightest. He has traveled in 
many lands, heard the finest music, but the mel- 
ody of those dear old pines sound sweeter to him 
than the grandest opera he ever heard. 

It was to “ Tip Top ” that Dr. Tom sent his 
protegee for no one ever went there without be- 
ing greatly benefited. Dr. Tom, when after a 
brief rest, was forced to return to the city, would 
fondly kiss his old mother and tell her how he 
wished every boy had as good a “ Mammy ” and 
a haven of rest like “ Tip Top ” to fall back upon. 
They could face the world better, and the devil 
and his angels would never annoy him. 

After a few weeks of delightful rest at this 
lovely place Annette Fay was transformed into a 


42 


DR. TOM GARDNCR. 


healthy, beautiful girl. How surprised she was 
when Dr. Tom told her of his success with An- 
drew Stark. Her eyelids refused to close the 
night she heard the glad tidings, and early sun- 
rise found her strolling through the orchard, 
listening to and singing of the birds and even 
telling them of her good fortune and freedom. 

“ You are the greatest man that ever lived,’^ 
was her greeting to Dr. Gardner at the breakfast 
table. The remark pleased his mother so much 
she refrained from dissenting the opinion so 
frankly expressed. 

“ And how much can I spend a year ? was her 
next query. 

“ Seven hundred and fifty dollars,’' replied Dr. 
Tom, “ is the interest guaranteed by a banker, 
less taxes and other incidental expenses.” 

To Annette the amount seemed fabulous. 

The summer passed all too quickly. At inter- 
vals Dr. Tom would run out for a romp with his 
“ wilful ward,” as he called her. He insisted 
upon her visiting some of her relatives, and in his 
absence Annette had prevailed upon his mother 
to accept pay for her board; “ just so she could 
stay as long as she liked,” and the dear old lady 
could not refuse. 

Annette purchased a cream-colored thorough- 
bred filly, and soon developed into a daring rider. 
Once she prevailed upon Dr. Tom to accompany 
her on horseback, and in returning home insisted 
upon riding across the country across the fields 
and over the fences. After much teasing, to please 
her. Dr. Tom consented. In his gallantry, while 
dismounting to let down a rail fence, he almost 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


43 


fell from his horse. Dr. Tom was anything but 
an equestrian. Suddenly, with a mocking laugh, 
she brushed past him, vaulted the fence on her 
horse, and startled the doctor into a cold perspira- 
tion with her reckless leap. She had such a merry 
laugh he could not scold her. He could only vow 
that he would never go riding with her again. 

Three years slowly passed, Annette spending 
her summers at “ Tip Top ’’ and her winters at 
Staunton College, Virginia, where she became a 
great favorite, and was now preparing for her 
graduation. 

Andrew Stark erected a beautiful stone church 
for the Christian Scientist Society, of which he 
was an honored member. 

Dr. Thomas Gardner was now recognized as 
one of the foremost of his profession, but despite 
his wonderful success he was not happy, in fact, 
at this moment we find him sitting in his office 
chair, brooding over a marked copy of the En- 
quirer he had just received. A few months be- 
fore the papers had heralded the coming of a 
wealthy Italian count, and later, society had 
fairly raved itself mad over the dark-haired for- 
eigner. To cap the climax some one had been 
kind enough to send the doctor a paper announc- 
ing the engagement of “Count Leopold Von de 
Voldii ” to Celia Stark, the beautiful daughter of 
Andrew Stark, Esq.” This announcement had a 
depressing effect upon Dr. Tom in spite of his 
effort to throw off his “ silly weakness ” as he 
termed it. He was convinced that it was impos- 
sible for such a woman to be a suitable compan- 
ion, or fitted for his sphere in any way. He hied 


44 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


himself to “ Tip Top/’ a last resort in time of 
trouble, and surprised his mother with an unex- 
pected visit. 

The dear old creature noticed her son’s discon- 
solate look and while alone with him that evening 
on the veranda, she referred to the subject nearest 
her heart. 

“ My son, I have seen some unmistakable signs 
of late which indicate that my fondest wishes may 
yet be realized.” 

‘‘ Why, what do you mean, mother ? ” 

'' Ah, Thomas, would you try to deceive me ? ” 

“ Certainly not, wilfully. What do you mean? ” 

“ Simply the old, old story, my son.” 

“ Mother, do explain. I am at a loss to know 
your meaning.” 

“ Ah ! The symptoms are the same, my wise 
doctor, in all ages and climes. I am not sur- 
prised. I am delighted to think the infant 
offspring of Venus has landed his dart in the 
breast of my son.” 

“ So then, I am in love, eh ? ” 

“ Yes, dear, the symptoms are pathognomonic, 
as you physicians would say.” 

“ Well, mother, you are quite right ! I’ve a 
regular allopathic dose, which is driving me 
nearly frantic. I actually feel idiotic at times.” 

Come, come, you must not lose your head.” 

I fear I have already, mother dear, this creat- 
ure, though wonderfully beautiful, is perfectly 
heartless and no more fit to make me happy than 
Queen Victoria. I was actually refused, repulsed, 
three or four years ago, yet it seems impossible to 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


45 


free her from my mind. She is too much like her 
father to ever make any one happy.” 

“ You astonish me. Fine looking, of course, 
but what in the world do you mean by calling her 
heartless, and so like her father, is she not really 
an orphan ? ” 

“ Orphan, why to whom do you refer ? ” 

“ Annette, of course.” 

Annette ! Why mother, no such thought of 
her has ever entered my mind ! Ha ! ha ! In love 
with my ware I Such an idea is absurd. She is 
only a child.” 

“ Nay, my son, say not absurd. She is a rare 
sweet flower, a woman grown, and very beautiful. 
She is my ideal. I know what a kind heart she 
has, and you could look the world over and not 
find a more unselfish creature. I have noticed, 
too, with great satisfaction, that of late her big 
blue eyes shine brightest only in your presence.” 

‘‘ Good gracious, mother, you don’t mean An- 
nette is actually in love with me ? ” 

“ Yes, Thomas, I think she is, and you would 
break two hearts should you marry any one else.” 

** Why, mother, I never dreamed of such a pos- 
sibility. One experience with Cupid’s dart is all 
I want in this world or the next. I would rather 
wrestle with Asiatic cholera, for it would be over 
with, one way or the other, in a short time, and 
not keep a fellow on nettles all his natural life. 
Be reasonable, mother, and don’t mix me up in 
any more love scrapes. Explain the matter in 
some way I beg of you, and smooth it over as best 
you can.” 

‘‘You must do that yourself, Thomas, I would 


46 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


not hurt the poor child’s feelings, and besides she 
has never made me her conhciant. Tell me, who 
is the being you worship ? ” 

“ You know Andrew Stark? ” 

“ Yes, I know the cold-blooded arrogant man. 
Your grandfather gave him his first start and 
lived to regret it. What of him ? ” 

‘‘ Well, It is his youngest daughter. Miss Celia, 
who hypnotized me.” 

“What! That flaxen-haired gad-fly! That 
fashionable, fickle creature I Why, there is noth- 
ing real about her ! I am surprised that a woman 
with blondined hair and painted cheeks could at- 
tract a son of mine I ” 

“ That’s right, mother, it makes me feel better 
to hear you talk.” 

What would we do with such a giddy thing 
here? You certainly have not considered the 
consequences of such a marriage. I sincerely 
hope her refusal was absolute.” 

“ It seemed to be, mother. I have not spoken 
to her for over three years. The affection is here 
yet, and it seems impossible to overcome it.” Dr. 
Tom gave a long deep sigh and pressed his hand 
over his heart. 

Well, this is the silliest state of affairs I 
ever knew. I never dreamed of your being so 
absurd. You must be exhausted, or nervous 
from overwork, the whole affair is so foolish. I 
am sure after a good rest you will find no diffi- 
culty in forgetting her. You always were a 
spoiled child, Thomas, and the only way I could 
quiet you, when a little fellow, was to tie some 
sugar in a rag and put you to bed. Now, Thomas, 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


47 


take fair warning, if I hear any more of such boy 
talk I shall insist upon putting you back on the 
old remedy.” 

They both laughed long and heartily and Dr. 
Tom retired a new man. 

The next dav was Sunday, the last day before 
Annette was to return to college. She insisted 
upon going to church; so the doctor hitched up 
“ Old Nell ” and started for the schoolhouse on 
Banklick. In those days this building served 
both for school and church. They were compelled 
to start rather early, owing to the eccentricities of 
Old Nell,” who was about as wilful a bay mare 
as was ever put in harness. She was kind and 
gentle, but when a little tired, was inclined to 
rest. In coming up the long hill she would not 
only stop when she pleased, but would often lay 
down, carefully, so as not to break the shafts; 
but lie down she would. The mare was a great 
favorite with Dr. Tom’s mother, who never al- 
lowed her to be punished. Neither would she 
permit any one to carry a whip, so when “ Old 
Nell ” laid down or stopped there was nothing to 
be done but wait ; for, when rested, she would get 
up and start of her own accord. 

Dr. Tom thought best to make a confidant of 
his ward, so she could not have any excuse for 
falling in love with him. He spoke to her of his 
affection for her Cousin Celia ; told her about his 
rejection and emphasized the statement that he 
could not possibly love again. 

“ I want you to be a sister to me always, An- 
nette,” said he. 


48 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


ril try, Dr. Tom, but don’t people ever fall 
in love the second time ? ” 

“ No, I think not, in the same way. It would 
be like having smallpox twice, and I think that 
is impossible.” 

Annette did not seem to notice the drift of the 
conversation ; appeared in fact to treat the matter 
lightly and Dr. Tom congratulated himself upon 
heading off any sentiment towards him. 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


49 


CHAPTER VII. 

It was the fall of ’96, when the citizens of 
Walnut Hills ” suffered from a severe epidemic 
of typhoid fever and Dr. Tom was the busiest 
practitioner in Cincinnati. His services were in 
demand night and day. After a long day, being 
unusually tired, he had fallen asleep in his chair. 
He was suddenly aroused by his office boy say- 
ing : “ There’s a gentleman here who wants to 
consult you.” Opening his eyes he was aston- 
ished to see Andrew Stark standing before him. 

“ Ah, excuse me. I’m surprised to see you. 
Take a chair.” 

Thanks. I have been forced to consult you 
professionally. Dr. Gardner.” 

“ Forced ! I am very sorry for your unpleas- 
ant predicament, Mr. Stark.” 

“ My daughter is seriously ill.” There were 
tears in Andrew Stark’s eyes. 

^Hll! Miss Celia?” 

** Yes. The day of her wedding to Count Von 
de Voldii has been announced, but she is very ill. 
The count is inexorable and actually demands 
your presence.” 

“ So it is the count who wants my services? ” 


50 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


“ Not exactly. I am here to employ you, and 
you are in a position to do me a great favor if 
you will.'' 

“ Ah, how so ? " 

“ You must understand my position. If you 
would consent to treat my child, and do so with- 
out the knowledge of my friends, I would pay 
you well for it." 

“ What ! Attend at night or something of that 
sort ? " 

“Yes, come to-night and stay until she recov- 
ers." 

“ No, you havn't money enough to tempt me to 
do such a thing. It is frequently done in this city, 
but no reputable physician would be guilty of 
such conduct. It is out of the question. Besides 
I have so many other cases to care for it would 
hardly be possible for me to attend to your 
daughter." 

“ What! You don’t refuse to take the case? " 

“ I fear I must. I would rather have you 
employ some one else." 

“ The count will be satisfied with no one else." 

“ Oh ! Confound the count. What has he to 
do with it ? " 

“ Come, we are wasting time. We want you. 
You certainly practice your profession for what 
money you can make out of it I It is your trade, 
your only source of livelihood. Now what is 
your price ? " 

“ That must not enter into consideration, Mr. 
Stark, if I accept the call it will not be for money. 
I would rather not have anything to do with the 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


51 


“ I repeat it, sir, every man has a price. You 
are following your trade for mercenary reasons. 
Men in your business don’t hesitate usually about 
such matters. Come, name your figures, it is 
business with me. I want your services.” 

Dr. Tom was pale with anger. 

“ Andrew Stark, there are some things in this 
world money cannot buy. If I name you a price 
it will be simply to prove to you I have no respect 
for you or your money.” 

“ Name it, I want your services and shall pay 
for them.” 

“ I’ll take the case for twenty thousand dol- 
lars. ” 

“ So you have no respect for my money?” 

“ No, sir. Accept or reject the offer as you 
please. It is simply a matter of business, as you 
call it. Place my services on the same plane as 
the purchase of tobacco, if you will. Such is my 
fee, to you.” 

“ I accept,” said Andrew Stark, “ but remem- 
ber it is simply a commercial transaction. I want 
no sentiment to have a part in this.” 

“ There shall be none, sir,” said Dr. Tom. 

Within an hour Dr. Tom arrived at the Stark 
mansion. He was ushered into the drawing room 
and Andrew Stark soon made his appearance ac- 
companied by a most repulsive looking man, who 
was short in stature, with long dark hair, parted 
in the center. He wore a short Tuxedo, with del- 
icate pink ribbons for cuff buttons, dangling from 
his sleeves, a gaudy vest and doeskin trousers 
flaring below the knee. 

“Allow me to present His Highness, Count 


52 


DR.. TOM GARDNER. 


Von de Voldii, Dr. Gardner/’ said Andrew Stark. 

“ Ah ! ” said Dr. Tom, “ male or female ? ” 

'' Count Von de Voldii, of Italy, sir.” 

“Ah! Excuse me (all pedigree and no boss, 
as David Harum would say),” whispered the doc- 
tor. 

“ Ah I So ! lam charmed to meet the celebrat- 
ed Docture Toomas Guardner, de tephoid experte 
are you note ? ” 

“ That’s my name, but I am only an ordinary 
doctor, I assure you.” 

“ I will talk de matter with you. Dr. Guardner, 
I like not de cystem without de medecene.” 

“ Come, I am tired of this. Conduct me to the 
patient, Mr. Stark, I have neither time nor inclin- 
ation to be entertained by this most distinguished 
foreign gentleman. I am here solely in a business 
capacity, and oeg to be excused.” 

Andrew Stark at once led the way to the room 
of his sick daughter. 

Dr. Tom was much affected at the first sight 
of his old sweetheart. She was so beautiful, 
and apparently suffering greatly. His heart was 
deeply touched and it was only with the greatest 
difficulty he kept back the tears. 

There were several women present with a local 
Christian Science healer, and they curiously 
watched the doctor as he made his examination. 
The patient was evidently very ill. The fever 
had reached a height almost beyond control. 
Turning to the father, who had followed him into 
the room. Dr. Tom said: 

“You have made a very sad mistake, Mr. Stark, 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


55 


in not having medical assistance sooner, I very 
much fear no human being can help her now.” 

The divine healer quickly interrupted him. 

Doctor beware ! Please do not think such horri- 
ble thoughts. You will certainly murder the in- 
nocent daughter. By such wicked expressions 
you make recovery impossible.” 

“ What silly rot is this ? What possible power 
can thoughts, hopes, wishes or prayers have in 
such an emergency? Are vou a Christian Scien- 
tist?” 

I am. Thank the God we worship.” 

“ Is it possible there exists a human being who 
can look at the face of that invalid and deny the 
existence of disease? Tell me, is the flush on that 
pale, distressed face, simply imagination? An- 
drew Stark, I very much fear your prejudice has 
cost you the life of your, daughter. I must have 
full charge of this case or I shall resign it.” 

‘T leave my child in your hands. For God’s 
sake save her ! ” 

“ Then I must have a trained nurse at once, 
who will take entire care of the patient. I must 
know that every direction I give will be followed 
carefully. Ladies, with me, this is simply a com- 
mercial transaction. The time for prayers has 
passed. The patient is unconscious and could 
not avail herself of your services, even if she so 
desired. I must ask you to retire. Don’f miscon- 
strue my conduct, I believe in God as sincerely as 
you do. Every day I ask Him for light to guide me 
in my humble sphere. I undertake nothing with- 
out asking His blessing and support. I believe in 
praying for health as well as salvation. We can- 


54 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


not separate the mind, or spirit from this body of 
clay until the shackles of death release us. So 
long as we are encumbered with this body just 
so long must we obey the laws of health, or pay 
the penalty. Time is too precious for me to say 
more. I trust 1 do not offend you. We can reach 
your ideal only when we cross the river, at which 
time we shall leave the fetters which chain us 
now.” 

There was a struggle between life and death 
for several weeks. The nurse was greatly an- 
noyed by numbers of Scientist callers. Dr. Tom 
placed a smallpox sign upon the front door of the 
house. This made even Andrew Stark shiver as 
he passed. He remonstrated with Dr. Tom for 
placing it there, but the doctor insisted it was 
necessary. “ I am after that twenty thousand 
dollars and court no idle interference.” 

As Celia Stark became convalescent she was 
very grateful to Dr. Tom for his faithful atten- 
tion. She could not but compare his personal 
appearance to that of the count, who grew more 
insignificant in her eyes each day. At times she 
could not endure his presence. She never real- 
ized or appreciated Dr. Tom’s affectionate dispo- 
sition, nor respected the value of his calling, as 
now. It was a relief to see him. What a grand, 
noble fellow he was. She admired him before; 
she adored him now. She wondered why he did 
not refer to those old days of their engagement. 
His apparent indifference made her more and 
more wretched. The first time she was propped 
to a sitting position, she waited impatiently for 
the doctor’s morning visit, determined to have a 


DR. TOM GARDNER.. 55 

confidential talk with him. She made the nurse 
promise to leave them together. When the doc- 
tor called he found her alone, and was greatly 
surprised at her greeting. 

“ Ah, Tom, I am so glad to see you. I owe 
you an apology. I want to talk over our old love 
affair. I appreciate your value now, and long 
for your forgiveness. It was all father’s doing, 
and, Tom, I have grown to love you as never be- 
fore. I was conscious several days before you 
thought, and noted all your tenderness and kind 
sympathy. I despise the count. I am tired of the 
fashionable world and hate the circle he moves 
in. You love me — a little — don’t you, Tom? ” 
There was a time. Miss Celia, when I would 
have made any sacrifice to have pleased you, or 
called you mine. It is different now, you are the 
affianced of another. You owe quite as much to 
your faithful nurse for your recovery as to me. 
You are also indebted to the count. Had it not 
been for him I should never have been permitted 
to attend you. I do not care to discuss the matter 
you have mentioned. You are not yourself now, 
and, when I consented to treat you it was solely 
for financial reasons, a mere business transaction. 
I promised that no sentimental complications 
should enter into the case, and I shall carry out 
my side of the contract to the letter. I trust you 
will not refer again to this old matter, it is un- 
worthy of your better self.” 

As he descended the stairs Dr. Tom decided to 
step into the library and inform Mr. Stark that 
his daughter was convalescent and could shortly 
dispense with his services. 


56 DR. TOM GARDNER. 

Mr. Stark was seated at his desk. There were 
several Christian Scientist ladies present, the 
leader of whom arose and extended her hand to 
Dr. Tom, saying: 

“ Ah, Dr. Gardner, we are delighted to see you. 
We were just talking about you. We know you 
are fair-minded and we should be glad to have 
you answer a question for us.” 

“ I am at your service, ladies,” answered Dr. 
Tom, with a bow. “ If anything in my line, I 
will gladly give what information I possess.” 

We presume you are aware that followers of 
our faith put all their trust in the Great Physi- 
cian. Can you tell how it was possible for Jesus 
of Nazareth to heal the afflicted without the use 
or aid of medicines?” 

“ Your question is not unanswerable, from a 
Bible standpoint, at least,” said Dr. Tom. “ The 
fact that Jesus healed diseases without medi- 
cine, that he restored the blind to sight, and raised 
the dead is the only evidence we have of his 
divinity. Take away that power, destroy that 
evidence, and you shake the very foundation of 
Christianity. If Christian Scientists believe and 
can prove to us or any intelligent body or men, 
that you possess this divine power; prove to us 
you can restore the blind and raise the dead; we 
will call you divine and worship you as we do 
Christ. There is no record that Christ denied 
the existence, the awful reality of disease, nor 
did he make lig^ht of the suffering of others. Mrs. 
Eddy says it is wrong to sympathize, even with a 
child. It is said that Jesus wept at the grave of 
Lazarus. Did you ever see a Christian Scientist 


IDR. TOM GARDNER.. 


51 


Weep? I think not. You are taught to consider 
tears an insult to God, or rather, evidence of your 
weakness of faith, or disbelief in His power. You 
even tell the dying there is no such thing as death. 
Passover, I think you call it.’' 

“ There is nothing real but God — God is all in 
all.” 

“ I do not doubt that, I believe in a different 
God, however, a tender, loving, merciful Father. 
I believe truly ^ that whatsoever a man soweth, 
that shall he surely reap.’ I see too much physi- 
cal suffering to deny its existence. Take a dog, 
strike him forcibly, you will hear his physical ex- 
pression in an unmistakable howl of pain. If he 
be possessed of sufficient physical, or nervous 
force, he will resent the insult to his anatomy in 
a pronounced manner.” 

“ Speaking of physical pain, do you really be- 
lieve, Doctor, that there is any feeling — any real 
life — in what you call your material leg, arm or 
eye ? ” 

“ Certainly. If in a healthy condition you 
stick a pin in your flesh you will feel it exactly 
at the point of entrance. If you get a mote in 
one of your eyes, it will resent its presence.” 

“ Let me prove to you. Doctor, the fallacy of 
such reasoning. Suppose you remove the eye 
from the socket, or amputate the arm from the 
shoulder, it will soon decay, will it not? Does 
it not possess all it had before removal except 
mind? Does not the mind control everything? 
Mind, we believe, is of God — God is all in all.” 

No, such reasoning is from a metaphysical 
standpoint only, and in many respects your con- 


58 


DR.. TOM GARDNER. 


elusions are false. There is a physical as well as 
a spiritual body. When joined together, as in 
the live human body, they are subject to certain 
fixed laws. The spiritual part, or mind, as you 
call it, should and does govern the physical or 
material part to a great extent. It can do this 
only to a certain limit. Again there are times 
when the physical controls the mental or may 
even destroy it. The human body is like an elec- 
trical cell or battery. The arms, eyes, legs, in 
fact every minute portion of the body is connected 
with the grand center or brain, by its nerve fila- 
ments or wires. Cut oif any of these wires and 
the part below it assumes its material nature. So 
long as the connections are intact we have life 
and all sensations. 

No, ladies, pardon me, while it is possible for 
you to accomplish much good, your method of 
cure is applicable to but a small per cent, of the 
ailments of mankind. Hypnotic suggestion, 
which in my humble opinion, is the fundamental 
law of your system of cure, is not confined to any 
one church, belief or creed. Nor can I imagine 
anything more blasphemous than the presumptive 
claim of any one, be he man or woman, preacher 
or potentate, who professes to be endowed with 
the superhuman power of the Holy Spirit, and 
entitled to enjoy a monopoly of this power for 
remunerative purposes.'’ 

There was a painful silence. Dr. Tom made 
known the convalescence of his patient and with- 
drew. 


Die. TOM GARDNER. 


59 


CHAPTER VIII. 

It was several weeks after Celia Stark’s re- 
covery, when Andrew Stark called at the office to 
settle his bill. 

“ You have done me a great service, Doctor 
Gardner, I admit, but I have met with some heavy 
reverses lately, and any reduction you are willing 
to make will be greatly appreciated.” 

‘‘ I have performed my part of the contract to 
the letter, Andrew Stark, and want my price. 
Since you placed the matter on a commercial 
basis, I must insist upon a full settlement.” 

So be it, I am not a man to rescind my own 
bargain.” 

“I don’t care for the money, myself, but wish 
to place it where it will do the most good.” 

“ I don’t understand your meaning.” 

“ You may draw me a check for twelve thou- 
sand dollars payable to the Sisters of the Good 
Samaritan Hospital. They want more room for 
the children, and this amount will build a fine ad- 
dition. You have never been noted for your char- 
ity, but I’ll see that you have at least one memo- 
rial to your credit. Thanks. Now draw me a 
check for two thousand dollars payable to Wil- 


60 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


liam Saucer & Company. I want a monument 
erected to the memory of your sister Matilda. 
That’s right. Now draw a check for five hun- 
dred dollars payable to me personally. I believe 
that leaves five thousand dollars yet due. I’ll tell 
you what I want with that. You have treated 
me honorably in this matter, Mr. Stark, and I 
have a proposition to make. You are the owner 
of the new stone church, are you not ? ” 

“ Yes, but I have promised to transfer the prop- 
erty to the society.” 

“ Oh, I don’t want the church,” said Dr. Tom, 
and Stark gave a sigh of relief. “ There’s a 
large vestibule as you enter the church, is there 
not?” 

‘^Yes, about fourteen feet square, I think.” 

Well, I have a beautiful oil painting, with a 
motto or recipe, I don’t know which you would 
call it; a sort of hand work, made of colored 
thread, silk or something of that sort. I want to 
hang that picture and motto on the wall in the 
vestibule of the church and I will pay you one 
thousand dollars a year for the privilege of keep- 
ing them there. Oh ! It is nothing at which you 
or any one should take offence, simply a study,- 
or object lesson. The painting is really a work of 
art and the motto was made by the children at 
the hospital. The picture will be placed in a 
gilt frame.” 

“ One thousand dollars a year? ” 

“Yes, payable in advance for five years.” 

“Nothing offensive?” 

“ No, not unless you so take it.” 

“ Where is the picture ? ” 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


61 


It is not yet completed. Weber is painting it 
for me. The whole affair is merely a whim or ca- 
price of mine. Of course you can annul the con- 
tract at any time by a check for the amount due.” 

“ The motto will not reflect upon me personally 
or members of the society? ” 

“ No, there shall be nothing personal about it.” 

“ And you will receipt me in full for the bal- 
ance of five thousand dollars ? ” 

'' Yes, sir, and you can explain the matter to 
the society in any way you prefer.” 

“ I will accept your proposition.” 

“Anticipating your consent I have had a con- 
tract drawn. Sign this and we will pass re- 
ceipts.” 

Andrew Stark, miser that he was, gladly signed 
the paper, which read : 

“To Whom It May Concern: 

“For and in consideration of $5000, in hand, 
paid by Dr. Thomas Gardner, the receipt in full 
for which is hereby acknowledged, I, Andrew 
Stark, do hereby grant to the said Thomas Gard- 
ner, his heirs and assigns, the privilege or per- 
mission to place within the vestibule of the 
Christian Scientist Church, erected by me, sit- 
uated and being in the City of Cincinnati, Hamil- 
ton County, Ohio, a certain oil painting, also re- 
cipe or motto. Said picture to be enclosed within 
a gilt frame, not exceeding six feet square. Said 
picture to remain within said vestibule or upon 
the wall thereof at the pleasure of said Dr. Thom- 
as Gardner, for a period of not exceeding five 
years from the date of signing hereof. If for any 
reason said picture be removed, or in any way 


62 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


covered from view, torn or defaced, within the 
time or period herein specified, the said Andrew 
Stark does hereby agree without process of law, 
to refund, on demand, to the said Dr. Thomas 
Gardner, such amount as shall then be due at the 
rate of $1000 per annum, for the unexpired time 
required to complete said contract. 

“ Signed this 23rd day of October, 18 — 
''Andrew Stark, 

"Dr. Thomas Gardner."’^ 

Andrew Stark was much pleased the next 
morning upon reading the Enquirer to find a 
glowing account of his munificent gift to the 
Good Samaritan Hospital. A full half-column 
was devoted to praising his generosity and re- 
markable business sagacity, closing with the 
statement that the unsolicited gift was made in 
honor of the recovery of his daughter, who had 
been seriously ill. 

" Humph,” remarked Andrew Stark, as he laid 
aside the paper, " Dr. Gardner is a pretty good 
sort of a fellow after all.” 

Celia Stark having fully recovered was much 
chagrined by the attitude of her physician. She 
interviewed her father, and exacted every detail 
of his contract with the doctor, and was indignant 
with him for forcing the doctor to avoid all sen- 
timent. She realized now that she loved him to 
madness, but she felt she could easily bring him 
back to her heart; for often, as he sat by her 
bedside she had seen the affectionate look in his 
eyes which spoke more than words. 

Twice feigning illness she had sent for Doctor 
Gardner. The first time he was out of the city. 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


63 


and the second, being too busy to come, he had 
provokingly sent another physician. There was 
nothing left but to call at his office in person, 
which she determined to do that very afternoon. 

Dr. Tom saw her as the carriage stopped at his 
house. He had not sufficient courage to meet 
her and the office boy was absent, so the doctor 
was driven to the extremity of bolting the door. 
He scarcely had time to seat himself in a nearby 
chair, before the bell rang. A minute later it 
rang violently. The third appeal was more urgent 
than ever, in fact Dr. Tom trembled for fear she 
would look over the transom and find him sitting 
there. Her patience soon became exhausted, and 
he heard her murmur, as she turned to leave, 
“ How provoking, I thought I saw him looking 
through the window as we drove up.'’ 

Dr. Tom was ashamed of his weakness, but 
visions of the actual state of affairs, of the scan- 
dal and comment it would arouse, the pain and 
heartache it would cause his old mother, im- 
pressed him forcibly with a sense of his duty. 

He resolved to avoid her, henceforth and for- 
ever. 

How the plans of mice and men gang aft 
aglee ! ” 

The next afternoon he received a telephone 
message from a lady, whose voice he did not rec- 
ognize, asking him if he would be at his office for 
a few minutes. He answered “ yes," and would 
await her coming. 

Imagine his surprise when Miss Celia Stark 
entered. She trembled as she approached him. 
Lifting her heavy eyelids she fixed upon him 


64 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


the most beautiful eyes in the world, and said, 
“ Tom, I know now that I did you a great injus- 
tice, did I really break your heart? Love me as 
of old and I will try so hard to mend it. She 
threw herself into his arms impulsively and burst 
into tears. Dr. Tom was very pale and his wild, 
bright eyes seemed saddened. It was a mad de- 
licious dream. He could not refrain from kissing 
those sweet eyes and lips. She felt his heart beat 
stormily and knew that his love was hers. Sud- 
denly he recovered himself. A vision of his 
mother appeared standing in the doorway. 
Slowly she bowed her head, as if in grief. He 
stared aghast ! His countenance changed ! Utter 
discomfiture fell upon him. Disengaging him- 
self from her embrace, he gently seated her in a 
chair. “Celia ! Celia ! ” he exclaimed, “ what 
have you done ? ” 

“ You don’t realize how I love you. O ! Tom, 
why don’t you say you love me ? ” 

“ I admit it, Celia, but we must be sensible. I 
will not allow such sentiment to destroy your 
happiness as well as mine. It’s too late now for 
all this foolishness. Come ! Let us talk this mat- 
ter over. Your sickness must have affected your 
mind.” 

“Do you think me crazy? You — you didn’t 
use to think so.” 

“ That’s true enough, you didn’t lose your 
senses then, but I think I did. Just fancy, Celia, 
what people would say! How about the count 
and your father?” 

“ I don’t care for the count, and papa thinks so 
much more of you now,” 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


65 


Don’t say that, Celia, you know we should be 
ridiculed by every one. I could not stand that, 
and I know you could not. There was a time 
when I worshiped the very ground you walked 
on, but you and your father had little sympathy 
for me then.” 

“ Oh ! I know you must love some one else, or 
you wouldn’t treat me so. Oh, why didn’t you 
let me die ? ” 

“ No, you are mistaken, Celia; one experience 
such as I had is sufficient for an ordinary mortal. 
It has certainly made a fool of me.” 

“ And you really intend to drive me into mar- 
rying that count? ” 

“ I don’t intend to drive you into anything. 
That is a matter you must determine for your- 
self.” 

She rose from the chair and started towards 
the door. 

“ It is you who are unreasonable, Tom Gard- 
ner, and I give you fair warning. I know you love 
me. If you don’t come to me within twenty-four 
hours, I shall marry the count, and the blame for 
the ruin of both our lives must fall upon you, and 
you alone. If you want me to be wretched all 
my life, so be it! But, oh! Tom — I — ^believe we 
could be happy together, and I will pray, oh, so 
hard, for your coming. You must decide. Per- 
haps I am insane — who knows ? ” 

“ Well, confound the luck,” thought Dr. Tom, 
'' it’s the old, old story, as mother said. Something 
that every fellow must go through sooner or 
later, I suppose. Talk about the ‘ quick and the 
dead,’ if I hadn’t seen the vision of my mother 


66 


DIU TOM GARDNER.. 


in the doorway, I presume I should have been 
married by this time. I hardly know what to 
think of her threat. If she marries that dude I 
shall certainly console myself in thinking her in- 
sane. But what is my duty. The count is al- 
ready wealthy; so she will be surrounded with 
every comfort. Her father will be happy. His 
pride at least will be appeased. But how about 
me and my side of the house ? ’’ 

He argued the question with himself for sev- 
eral hours. 

It was night before he formed a conclusion; 
then driving down to the Ohio River, slowly he 
crossed the Suspension Bridge. Stopping once, 
or twice, he looked back and hesitated ; but final- 
ly drove on. Reaching the last turn of the road, 
on the heights beyond the city, he stopped the 
horse to look across the river. Far, far away the 
lights on “ Walnut Hills ” shown beautifully. He 
felt over there was weeping for him a heart- 
broken girl. He was afraid to trust her fickle 
nature. If I could only read the future,” 
thought he, “ and see and know she would always 
be true, I should be greatly tempted to turn back. 
Love, thou art often wrong. Fate, thou must 
decide for me — it is said thou art cruel, deal 
gently with me, and may I never regret this 
night’s action.” 

It was long after midnight when he reached the 
hill leading to “ Tip Top.” The waters of the 
creek ran like streams of silver. As he drove 
slowly up the first streak of early dawn began to 
break, and the morning mist filled the valley. He 
seemed rising above the clouds into another 


DR.. TOM GARDNER. 


67 


world, leaving his anguish behind him. Slowly 
he drove into the yard and walked gently to the 
house. 

The noise of the carriage awakened Mrs. 
Gardner, and recognizing her son, she met the 
doctor at the door. 

“ What means this midnight ramble, my son, 
anything wrong ? ” 

“ No mother, except I have had a serious fight.’* 

“ Gracious ! Thomas, a fight ? ” 

“ Yes, mother, but with myself only. When I 
get into trouble I always come to you.” 

“ I am so glad to hear you say that, my son. 
Come in, the night air is chilly, go into my room 
and stir up the fire, while I fix your bed. A 
night’s rest will prove a good tonic for you.” 

Mrs. Gardner was in her seventieth year. Noth- 
ing compares to the old-fashioned mother. She 
still cherished the broad, open fireplace, with its 
huge “back-log,” and as Dr. Tom seated himself 
in the great leather chair, wherein he had spent 
many a happy hour, he reached forward, stirred 
up the coals, and placed another stick of wood 
on the fire. It caused a shower of brilliant sparks 
to rise. “ Ah, sighed Dr. Tom, “ if I had as 
much gold as there are sparks there, I would be 
sadly tempted to risk happiness with Celia Stark. 
I know, however, she is not unlike others of her 
class, who, when they come to face the stern re- 
alities of life, inevitably feel it an insult to have 
married a poor man.” 

Every article in that room was dear to Dr. 
Tom. He had tacked his stocking many a time to 
that old mantle, over which hung a large portrait 


68 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


of his father long since dead. In the corner the 
tall old clock, a great treasure to its owner, with 
its solemn, musical tick. 

Dr. Tom had been a much petted child. He 
had sat many a time in his mother’s lap when he 
was so tall he could scarcely hold his feet off the 
floor, and he often expressed himself perfectly 
willing to be ill, if he could only sleep in 
mother’s bed. 

As he sat in this chair these feelings came 
back to him, and over his features there crept a 
look of yearning tenderness. 

“ You are the dearest old bed in the world,” he 
murmured. “ I’ll lie down until mother comes.” 

Suiting his actions to his words he removed his 
outer clothing and laid himself down. 

When his mother entered the room. Dr. Tom 
was too comfortable to move. 

“ Mammy, I feel like a child to-night, I want 
to sleep here, once more with you, may I ? ” 

How beautiful a mother’s love. There were 
tears of happiness in those dear old eyes as she 
knelt at his bedside and uttered a silent prayer. 

She carefully tucked the clothes around him, 
as she had done hundreds of times before. With 
her soft, but withered hands, she gently soothed 
his throbbing brow, and soon, as of old, the 
weary eyelids closed. A tear falls upon the up- 
turned face as she gives him, once more, a good 
night kiss. 

Softly she takes her place at his side and with 
his hand folded within hers, slumber falls upon 
them, and Dr. Tom sleeps as peacefully as a 
child. 

After all a man is but a child grown. 


DIU TOM GARDNER.. 


6d 


CHAPTER IX. 

Twenty-four, forty-eight, yes, sixty hours 
elapse before Dr. Tom returned to the city. He 
sent a boy each morning for the Daily Enquirer 
and searched in vain for a report of the expected 
wedding, but the announcement came not. 

“ Well, I presume Fve acted the fool long 
enough, i’ll go back to work this very morning,” 
said he. “ Wonder how those children are get- 
ting along with the ^motto.’ Sister Veronica has 
the convalescents at work on it. 

When Dr. Tom arrived at the hospital he was 
agreeably surprised to find his little motto com- 
pleted. The children worked faithfully and 
seemed greatly interested in the success of Dr. 
Tom’s “ joke,” as he called it. The sentiment 
expressed was a source of merriment to the se- 
date sisters. It read as follows: 

To All Who Doubt the Action of Drugs, 
Greeting. 

Take of — 

Powdered Ipecac 

Powdered Lobelia, of each ounce. 


Sulphate of Zinc Grains lo 

Apomorphia Grains 


70 


ttR. TOM GARDNER.. 


Terpeth Mineral Grains ^ 

Ground Mustard Seed Ounces 2 

Mix — Sig. 


Dissolve in one pint of warm water. 

Shake carefully and take in one dose. 

When Dr. Tom was notified of the completion 
of his painting he went at once to the studio of 
Anton Weber. The artist had surpassed his 
greatest expectations. He had entered into the 
work with his whole soul, and the painting was 
magnificent. It was a life-sized picture of the 
Master, the loving Christ, hanging in mid-air 
nailed on the Cross of Calvary. The bloody 
hands and feet pierced with rude iron spikes the 
expression of agony and physical suffering pic- 
tured upon that sweet face was appalling and so 
realistic that it made the beholder shudder with 
horror. At the foot of the cross and partly sur- 
rounding Him was a howling mob. Some spitting 
at Him, others scoffing and sneering, called upon 
Him to show His power. “If Thou be king, 
come down to us.” Others sat upon the ground, 
to watch and revile Him. Even the Chief Priests 
were there. One of them saying, “ He saved 
others. Himself He cannot save.” Hearing Him 
groan, a peculiarly dressed, holy appearing in- 
dividual, with a bowl filled with vinegar mixed 
with gall, wetted a sponge and putting it on a 
reed offered Him drink, saying, “ There is noth- 
ing real in this life, this is just the same as cool 
water.” 

The Master declined. 

To the right is a small group of weeping 
women. In their midst is Mary, the mother of 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


71 


Jesus, pleading, in vain, for permission to moisten 
with water, the lips of her dying 'son. 

It is the ninth hour of his physical torture. 
Tired nature is exhausted. 

Painted beneath in letters of gold are the last 
words uttered in the hour of his despair and phys- 
ical suffering. 

“ Eli, Eli, la — ma — sa — bach — tha — ni ? 

The rabble are yelling with glee and clapping 
their hands as the hour of darkness falls upon 
them. 

It was termed by all who saw it, the master- 
piece of the artist. Every face was a study. The 
sufferings of a Prometheus could not have been 
better portrayed. Surely angels must have guid- 
ed the hand of the old artist. 

Placed in a gilt frame, the picture and motto 
were hung in the vestibule of the ‘Christian 
Science Temple. Its presence was soon known 
throughout the city and thousands of people 
went to inspect it. The crowds increased on 
Sundays, to such extent, that no sooner were the 
doors opened than curious people would rush in 
and fill the building to its greatest capacity, much 
to the great chagrin of the members of the tem- 
ple. So great were the crowds, so adverse their 
criticisms, and so general their ridicule, they 
were compelled to have the picture removed. 

Accordingly, Dr. Tom was appealed to by a 
committee of the faithful. It was not long be- 
fore a delegation of ladies called at his office. 

“ We came. Doctor, to try to persuade you to 
remove that odious ‘ motto ’ and painting from 
the vestibule of our church.” 


12 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


I am sorry, ladies, you find them odious, but 
I have a contract with the founder of your tem- 
ple and he understands how he can remove it if 
he so wishes/' 

‘^What is their real meaning?" 

‘‘ Simply an object lesson. The picture repre- 
sents the lowly Christ nailed to the cross on Cal- 
vary. The crowd around Him mocks and ridi- 
cules His sufferings ; some are telling Him that 
His agony is only imaginary, that there is no 
such thing as physical pain. They even insist 
upon His releasing Himself from His imagin- 
ary predicament and saving Himself. When in 
Hi'S pain and suffering He utters, ‘ My God, 
My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me ! ' The 
crowd only clap their hands at his prevarication. 
If He did not suffer what an awful falsehood He 
must have uttered." 

“ Jesus did not say those words because of 
His physical pain, but rather for the -sins of the 
world." 

“ So you and those people in the picture be- 
lieve, but from my standpoint, I assure you, I fail 
to conceive how any one in such a position could 
enjoy Himself. How perfectly delighted He 
must have been." 

“ How could God suffer? You do not under- 
stand. A learned judge in Omaha was presum- 
ably severely burned. His daughter, who was 
not so strong in her faith, gave way to her sin and 
‘ passed on,' but although the earthly flesh of the 
judge had the deluded appearance of being burned 
to a crisp, it caused him no pain, he refused med- 
ical attendance and through God recovered." 


DB.. TOM GARDNER.. 


73 


** Poor man, so he did not have sense enough 
to know he was burned, eh? Well, it reminds 
me of a case at the Carthage Asylum. A poor 
demented fellow dropped into a bath tub of boil- 
ing water, and as the flesh dropped from his body 
he was not conscious of pain and sang gleefully 
a song of his childhood until death released him. 
He was a monomaniac, too, and did not realize 
his sufferings.” 

What does the motto mean ? ” 

“ Your goddess claims that drugs have no ef- 
fect upon the body. She even asserts that she 
has taken a teaspoonful of arsenic without any 
effect. Now, this little prescription is far more 
safe, and thinking perhaps some of you might be 
foolish enough to attempt the arsenic experiment 
I have offered you a substitute. If medicine has 
any effect, good or bad, you must conceed the 
falsity of many of her statements. I know how 
futile it is to try to convince a woman against 
her will, nevertheless, I will make you a propo- 
sition. 1 believe as firmly in God as you do, but 
do not go to the extreme of doubting His handi- 
work. Give me the names of all your members, 
your firm believers. I will preserve the list care- 
fully and follow the course of each person, and if 
at the end of ten years the majority do not, from 
personal experience, acknowledge the awful real- 
ity of pain or sickness and require the services of 
some modern physician, provided they do not 
become demented from their monomania, I will 
agree to join your ranks, to shout from the house- 
tops or your pulpit — that Jesus of Nazareth was 
a fraud, that we have power to accomplish more 


14 DR. TOM GARDNER. 

than He ever did; that He did not weep at th6 
grave of Lazarus, or exhibit any other so-called 
evidence of human weakness. I will also try to 
believe that the cry of the innocent babe is but 
an exclamation of pleasure rather than a signal of 
hunger or physical pain.” 

A few days later Dr. Tom received a check for 
five thousand dollars. The pressure was too 
much for Andrew Stark. 

The picture was presented by Dr. Gardner to 
the Cincinnati Historical Society, and the motto 
hangs in his office. 


DR.. TOM GARDNER.. 


75 


CHAPTER X. 


Dr. Tom received an elaborate invitation to at- 
tend the wedding of Count Von de Voldii and 
Celia Stark. It had no terrors for him now. He 
seemed relieved of a great load. '' Thank God, 
it's all over," thought he, but he was mistaken. 

The wedding was announced for Wednesday 
evening, at eight o’clock at St. Paul’s Church. 

Dr. Tom had actually forgotten the affair, and 
half past six found him seated in his office, in a 
happy state of mind. Suddenly he was startled 
by the ringing of the bell. Hastening to open 
the door he admitted a couple of well-dressed 
men, who were bearing in their arms a compan- 
ion, evidently in a state of intoxication; about 
the worst “ drunk ’’ the doctor had seen for some 
time. To prevent recognition they had pulled an 
old slouch cap over his eyes and as they attempt- 
ed to place him in a chair he actually slid off 
and fell upon the floor. 

Removing the cap Dr. Tom gave a gasp of sur- 
prise. 

My God! It’s the count ! " 

‘‘ Yes," said one of the men, “ for God’s sake 


76 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


do something quick. This is his wedding night, 
set for eight and it is now nearly seven.'' 

This is terrible. Does Miss Celia know he is 
drunk? " 

“ No, of course not. She knows he drinks. She 
has drank with him. Some of the boys made him 
full just for a joke. Do something for him 
quick. Get it out of him someway, but hurry 
up, it's getting deucedly late." 

“ You say Miss Stark knows the count 
drinks ? " 

“ Yes, of course, she does, and old Stark knows 
he's drunk now." 

The office door was suddenly thrown open and 
in the midst of this colloquy, Andrew Stark 
came hurriedly into the room. Noticing the help- 
less condition of the count he became almost fran- 
tic. Walking the floor and wringing his hands 
he implored Dr. Tom to do something quick. 
“ Oh ! It will be terrible for anything like this to 
interfere with the marriage. For God’s sake help 
us out, Doctor. I’ll give you five thousand dollars, 
anything you ask, only help us out. Be quick! 
be quick. " 

“ What do you want me to do ? " asked the 
doctor. 

“ Do ? Why, for God’s sake sober him up. Oh ! 
What will my friends say ? ” 

So you want your daughter to marry that 
drunken brute ? " 

“Yes! Hurry Hurry! He has wealth and 
position, all that any woman needs." 

Dr. Tom looked pale and haggard. His answer 
was brief but forcible. 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


77 


Take this man out of my office. You haven't 
money enough Andrew Stark, to make me a par- 
ty to such a crime. I decline to treat him, and I 
never want to see you again." 

Andrew Stark attempted to remonstrate. 

Stop ! " said Dr. Tom, “ get out of this office 
at once, or I shall be compelled to throw you 
out. Perhaps you and your Christian Scientist 
friends may imagine him sober. Possibly it is 
simply a mental delusion. After all, there may 
be no such condition as drunkenness. If you can 
think so, alright, but it is no imagination or the- 
ory with me. Go ! " 

And they went. 

Dr. Tom learned afterwards that the count was 
taken to another physician, who had no scruples 
about washing out his stomach ; after which they 
took him into one of the club rooms, stripped him 
of his clothing, walked him constantly, lashing 
him repeatedly with cold water and towels. In 
an hour he was able to stand alone but could not 
walk straight. 

He appeared at the church about twenty min- 
utes late. He was forced to walk down the 
church isle leaning upon the arm of his best man. 
He overlooked kissing the bride and had some 
trouble in placing the ring on her finger. How- 
ever, he muttered some foreign gibberish, and all 
of his actions were attributed to excitement or 
fright, and passed unnoticed. 

The next morning the count and countess sailed 
for Italy. 

Celia Stark never returned to her native city. 

LofC. 


78 


dr. tom GARDNER. 


CHAPTER XI. 

A FEW years later at the close of a beautiful 
October day, two people were seated on the old 
stile at the gate of “ Tip Top,” one, a tall but com- 
pactly built young man, the other a lady, who pos- 
sessed a refinement of manner that blended wel ! 
with her exquisite beauty. Her soft cheeks were 
bronzed by the sun, which seemed to have tinged 
the light wavy hair which fell over her shoulders. 
It was Annette Fay and Dr. Tom Gardner. 

The doctor had long since recovered from his 
infatuation for Celia Stark, in fact, he had never 
been able to understand, or satisfactorily analize 
his true feelings for her. He compared himself 
to a crazy moth, attracted by the dazzling bril- 
liancy of a lighted lamp, which hovered about it 
in its maddened state, until it became a victim, 
and was destroyed by the burning flame. He 
thanked God he escaped with only a slight scorch- 
ing. Annette Fay was graduated with honors 
from Scranton College. She traveled through 
the South during the winter, and had taken Dr. 
Tom’s mother traveling one entire winter. Sum- 
mer always found her at ‘‘ Tip Top.” Dr. Tom 
realized, more and more, the true worth o'f this 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


79 


affectionate girl, her presence became more and 
more indispensable to his happiness. For several 
weeks he had neglected his business and now 
felt ill at ease. There was an undisguised look 
of trouble on his face as he seated himself by her 
side. That very morning, as they were strolling 
through the orchard, he had declared his affection 
for her, and had taken her dainty face between 
his strong hands and told her how his life and 
happiness depended on her. Instead of a quick 
responsive “ yes,’' she had drawn close to him, 
looking up into his eyes with an almost yearning 
affection; she slowly shook her head and sadly 
murmured, “ I have always loved you, but I am 
afraid we can never marry.” Before he knew it 
she had withdraw from his presence, and had 
gone to the house. 

He was greatly perplexed by her actions. The 
sun seemed to lose its brightness ; even the birds 
were startled into silence. What could it mean? 
He did not know. He was chagrined at not meet- 
ing her at dinner. He did not see her again until 
evening and now as he found her at the gate, he 
sat down by her side fully determined to know 
the worst and insist upon an explanation. 

“ Etta, I cannot understand your actions,” he 
said, reproachfully. “ You say you have always 
loved me, and in the same breath say you cannot 
marry me. I cannot fathom the cause. I know of 
no possible complication that could prevent our 
marriage. My happiness, nay, I might even say 
that of my mother, depends upon your answer. 
What is the matter, can you tell me ? ” 

She slowly raised her eyes, fixed them upon 


80 


DR. TOM GARDNER. 


him and with the gentlest frankness replied: 
“ The fault is yours, Dr. Tom, you must answer 
a very important question first.^^ 

“ With me ! An important question ? For me 
to answer ? ” 

“ So important, indeed, that my happiness de- 
pends upon it.” 

What can it be ! Explain yourself? ” 

Do people ever have smallpox t-w-i-c-e ? ” 

It took but a few seconds to realize her mean- 
ing. He caught her in his arms. 

“You rogue, so you are trying to tantalize me 
in my hour of greatest happiness, are you ? Once 
in a great while, once in a thousand times, per- 
haps, a person may have smallpox twice, but I 
don’t believe I ever had the genuine article, at 
least it has left no scar.” 

With a little gasp of restful joy she let her head 
sink forward on his breast, and with the sweetest 
modesty told him he had taken her so greatly by 
surprise that morning, when he had opened his 
heart to her, that she had become so excited and 
happy, she ran at once and told Mother Gardner 
the news. 

It is needless to say there was joy unspeakable 
in the Gardner household. 

And now dear old “ Tip Top” we must bid thee 
adieu. Other scenes may pass away, but the in- 
spiration of those happy hours with thee, cling 
to us through life, like the sweet strains of an 
old hymn, laid deep in the heart, which often 
awakens us with mysterious melody, recalling the 
days of long ago and leading us to the border of 
the infinite. 



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